125 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com similar to the Lunch Bunch. The group meets quarterly at a restaurant and gives family members like spouses, siblings and adult children the chance to talk about their journeys as caregivers. The organization creates awareness of LOCA wherever possible, at places like Second Sunday on King Street, health fairs, the Teal Arts Festival in Awendaw and Cocktails for a Cause at the Harbour Club at WestEdge. It also raises money through donations. LOCA is making an impact in the medical community as well and Sommer-Kresse is the area facilitator for Survivors Teaching Students. The program, affiliated with the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, connects with future medical professionals including medical and nursing students across 350 colleges and universities to educate them about ovarian cancer and how it affects their patients and the community. To help make an impact in the lives of women fighting this disease, Sommer-Kresse invites people to donate or get involved in the organization. Or, if someone you know has recently been diagnosed, make sure they receive one of LOCA’s Bags of Hope and open that support network that is available to them and their caregivers. “When a woman hears the diagnosis of ovarian cancer – or any gynecological cancer – it’s one of the bleakest moments in her life. She needs support, love, understanding and good information,” Sommer-Kresse shared. “At LOCA, we hope we can provide that to women. That begins with a Bag of Hope.” Learn more about LOCA at locasc.org. health and wellness Joshua & Anne Marie Long, co-owners of Senior Resource Specialists, bring years of expertise in guiding families through the often overwhelming process of finding the right senior living options. As a locally based, relationship-driven team, they understand the unique challenges Charleston families face when navigating care decisions. In this “Ask the Expert” segment, they answer real questions from local families, offering insight and clarity to help you make informed choices with confidence. Senior Resource Specialists WE HAVE SENIORS COVERED Question: Hi Joshua and Anne Marie, I’m worried about my mom who lives alone. Her memory is declining, and she’s started forgetting basic things like taking her medications and even parts of her daily routine, like showering and getting dressed. A friend mentioned memory care communities—would that be the right fit for her? Answer: Hello Neighbor! I'm so sorry to hear about what you're going through - Its tough to watch a loved one struggle. When it comes to care options, assisted living might be a good first step. These communities help with daily tasks like medication management, bathing, and dressing, while also providing a social and supportive environment. Memory care is typically a better fit for those with more advanced memory loss, especially if there’s severe confusion or a risk of wandering. Based on what you’ve shared, assisted living could offer the right balance of support and independence for your mom right now, with the flexibility to explore memory care if her needs progress. We’re always here if you need more guidance! ASK THE EXPERT 843.732.0111
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1